I'm looking at a house and there's this pipe sticking out of the garage foundation near the water heater. The previous owner has passed away, and the seller can't provide any info about it. I'm curious about what this pipe actually is and its purpose. Also, can I cut it flush with the slab since I have plans for the garage space? The house was built in 2005, and it has natural gas, public sewer, and a concrete slab. Thanks for your help!
2 Answers
That pipe is likely a bollard. It's usually set in concrete to protect important equipment like your water heater from vehicle collisions, especially in garages. It's been a building code requirement since the late 90s in many states. If you peek inside, you might find it's filled with concrete. However, I'd be cautious about cutting it flush; it might have a structural purpose too.
Yeah, I’d say this is a protective structure, probably similar to what we had in Southern California. It’s meant to keep appliances safe from car damage. If you plan on changing the space around it, just make sure you're clear on what cutting it means for the overall integrity of your garage. Better to check with a pro!
Thanks for the advice! I'll definitely consult with a contractor before making any moves.